OR7A17

OR7A17 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the OR7A17 gene. The protein is a member of the olfactory receptor family, which is involved in the detection of odor molecules.

Function

Olfactory receptors are responsible for the detection of odor molecules. Activated by the binding of odorant molecules, these receptors trigger a neural response that transmits the information to the brain. OR7A17 is one of these olfactory receptors, and it is thought to have a role in the perception of smell.

Gene

The OR7A17 gene is located on chromosome 19 in humans. It is part of a larger family of olfactory receptor genes, which is the largest gene family in the genome. The specific function of this gene is not yet fully understood, but it is believed to be involved in the perception of smell.

Clinical significance

While the specific clinical significance of OR7A17 is not yet fully understood, olfactory receptors in general have been implicated in a variety of diseases and conditions. For example, alterations in olfactory receptor function can lead to a loss of smell, known as anosmia. Additionally, some research suggests that olfactory receptors may play a role in diseases such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease.

See also

• Olfactory receptor
• Anosmia
• Parkinson's disease
• Alzheimer's disease